TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Govt compensates Buduburam rock blast victims

    Govt compensates Buduburam rock blast victims

    The government has compensated over 500 individuals affected by property damage during a rock blasting exercise conducted in Buduburam by Nag Fairmount Construction Limited. The blasting, part of the Kasoa-Winneba road project, caused extensive destruction in October 2024.

    The incident resulted in widespread damage to properties, including shops along the Kasoa-Winneba Highway, with flying rock fragments destroying building roofs and causing significant losses. Tragically, three lives were lost, and several others sustained injuries.

    While compensation has been disbursed, some recipients have expressed dissatisfaction with the amounts provided. Solomon Darko Quarm, District Chief Executive (DCE) of Gomoa East, disclosed that the government also paid inconvenience allowances to ease the burden on those affected.

    “Today we are paying compensation for the blast that occurred at Buduburam. Over 500 people are being compensated today. Shops, damaged vehicles, and other residential property owners are being compensated.

    “There are rumours that ECOWAS is the one paying the compensation, but I want to state on authority that ECOWAS is not the one making the payment. This is a Government of Ghana project, not ECOWAS as is being purported. All this shared propaganda is just because of the elections.

    “We finished our work as a committee, and the contractor called that we must come for the money and distribute it to the affected people. Those in the first group and the last have all been factored in the distribution,” Mr. Quarm stated.

  • Shortage of ballot papers for Volta Region must be explained – NDC tells EC

    Shortage of ballot papers for Volta Region must be explained – NDC tells EC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has described the shortage of ballot papers in the Volta Region as an avoidable error and has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to thoroughly investigate the issue.

    Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, emphasised the need to address the root cause of the shortage to prevent its recurrence as Ghana prepares for the general elections on 7th December.

    The Electoral Commission recently acknowledged that ballot paper shortages had been identified in five constituencies within the Volta Region, raising concerns about its impact on voter confidence and the overall electoral process.

    In a Facebook post on Friday, November 29, Dr. Omane Boamah called for transparency in addressing the issue, stating:

    “The brief from our team makes it abundantly clear that the Electoral Commission of Ghana has committed another avoidable error. Our agents make it clear to us that the ballot statistics submitted to Act Commercial (printhouse) were complied with.

    “This being the case, we call on the Electoral Commission not to sweep the cause of this avoidable error under the carpet. That Volta Region, our stronghold, is experiencing such avoidable errors in series is not lost on us.

    “The Electoral Commission must explain to Ghanaians how the shortfall occurred,” he posted.

    In response, the EC announced that it has begun printing additional ballot papers to address the shortages and assured the public that the new batch will be distributed promptly to the affected constituencies.

    Despite this assurance, Dr. Boamah reiterated the NDC’s demand for a detailed explanation from the EC to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. He stressed that proactive measures are essential to ensuring a seamless and credible election in December.

  • Ghana will win and peace will reign – Bawumia shares outcome of 2024 polls

    Ghana will win and peace will reign – Bawumia shares outcome of 2024 polls

    Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has expressed confidence that the 2024 general elections will be peaceful and further cement Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy.

    Speaking at the national signing of the peace pact on Thursday, November 28, 2024, Dr. Bawumia assured, “As we head into the December 2024 polls, the 9th presidential elections in Ghana, nine days from today, I am certain of two outcomes. Ghana will win and peace will reign.”

    He highlighted Ghana’s track record as a law-abiding country and urged all stakeholders to uphold the values of democracy. “We have been here before and can prove again that Ghana is a shining example of a resilient democracy,” he emphasized.

    Dr. Bawumia appealed to electoral stakeholders to take their roles seriously in fostering harmony.

    “My plea to everybody involved in the electioneering process, including candidates, political parties, electoral officers, voters, the media, security, and the general public, is to take responsibility for ensuring peace and harmony seriously and to demonstrate that we are not reluctant democrats.”

    The Vice President added, “We will come out of this election stronger as a nation.”

    The event also saw other political leaders, including John Dramani Mahama, flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), signing the peace pact aimed at promoting a peaceful electoral process.

    Mahama, however, cautioned that peace agreements must be backed by genuine actions to maintain trust. “There is reason to be concerned that the signing of this pact, though well-intentioned, could amount to nothing if not followed by concrete actions to guarantee the peace by the stakeholders and government,” he warned.

    He underscored the importance of aligning declarations with actions, adding, “It is all well and good for us to commit to peace and recite beautiful platitudes. However, all efforts to build peace before, during, and after the 2024 elections would be futile if mistrust and insincerity persist. Mistrust arises when there is a disconnect between words and actions, compounded by gaslighting from those in authority.”

    Drawing from past experiences, Mahama recalled the violence during the 2020 general elections and the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election. “We all recall the appalling spectacle of masked men acting on the orders of operatives of the government, shooting indiscriminately at innocent Ghanaians going about their legitimate electoral activity during that by-election. Some of the victims of that shooting incident remain incapacitated till now.”

    He criticized the government for failing to implement recommendations from the Emile Short Commission, which investigated the by-election violence, stating, “The inaction of the government in the face of the murder of eight of our citizens during the last election casts a shadow of doubt on government commitment to maintain the peace. How are we to believe that such killings would not reoccur?”

    Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa assured Ghanaians of a credible electoral process, stating, “Robust measures are in place to ensure the elections are peaceful, free, fair, and transparent.”

    The peace pact, signed by political parties and their candidates, is aimed at ensuring a peaceful election and upholding Ghana’s democratic principles.

  • Without concrete actions to ensure peace, signing peace pact means nothing – Mahama

    Without concrete actions to ensure peace, signing peace pact means nothing – Mahama

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has warned that peace pacts ahead of the 2024 elections risk being meaningless without genuine actions to back them.

    Speaking during the signing of a peace pact on Thursday, November 28, Mahama emphasized the importance of trust and sincerity among stakeholders in achieving lasting peace, expressing doubts about the effectiveness of such agreements in the absence of concrete measures.

    “There is reason to be concerned that the signing of this pact, though well-intentioned, could amount to nothing if not followed by concrete actions to guarantee the peace by the stakeholders and government,” he stated.

    Mahama argued that declarations of peace must align with the actions of those in authority, cautioning against hypocrisy and a disconnect between commitments and behavior.

    “It is all well and good for us to commit to peace and recite beautiful platitudes. However, all efforts to build peace before, during, and after the 2024 elections would be futile if mistrust and insincerity persist. Mistrust arises when there is a disconnect between words and actions, compounded by gaslighting from those in authority,” he said.

    Drawing on events from the 2020 general elections and the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election, Mahama highlighted instances that undermine confidence in the process.

    “We all recall the appalling spectacle of masked men acting on the orders of operatives of the government, shooting indiscriminately at innocent Ghanaians going about their legitimate electoral activity during that by-election. Some of the victims of that shooting incident remain incapacitated till now,” he recounted.

    He criticized the government’s inaction on the recommendations of the Emile Short Commission, which investigated the Ayawaso West Wuogon incident, stating that this undermines public trust in the government’s commitment to peace.

    “The refusal by the government to act on the recommendations of the Emile Short Commission does not inspire confidence in Ghanaians that the government truly believes in peace,” Mahama said.

    He further condemned the government’s failure to address the killing of eight citizens during the 2020 elections, questioning whether such violence could recur in 2024.

    “The inaction of the government in the face of the murder of the eight of our citizens during the last election casts a shadow of doubt on government commitment to maintain the peace. How are we to believe that such killings would not reoccur?” he asked.

  • Stop telling public one party will vote today and another tomorrow – Mahama jabs Wontumi TV/FM

    Stop telling public one party will vote today and another tomorrow – Mahama jabs Wontumi TV/FM

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has criticized misleading reports suggesting that political parties will vote on separate days during the 2024 general elections.

    His remarks were directed at recent claims made on Wontumi TV/FM, which he described as harmful to public confidence in the electoral process.

    Speaking at a national event for the signing of the peace pact ahead of the elections, Mahama cautioned media practitioners to prioritize accurate and balanced reporting.

    “To our media practitioners, I encourage you to promote balanced and accurate reporting. We must avoid misleading the electorates by deceiving them that some parties are going to vote one day and others are going to vote on another day,” he said.

    He further emphasized the need for credible journalism, urging the media to avoid sensationalism and speculation, instead focusing on information that fosters peace and understanding.

    Mahama’s comments come in the wake of the arrest of Oheneba Nana Asiedu, a Kumasi-based presenter with Wontumi TV/FM, who is facing charges of publishing false news under Section 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

    The Ghana Police Service arrested Asiedu last Saturday after a video circulated online showing him making false claims about the election schedule. In the footage, Asiedu alleged that different political parties would vote on separate dates, a statement the police described as untrue and likely to disturb public peace.

    https://twitter.com/akurabonsam1/status/1860242512910160208

    Although granted bail, Asiedu has been summoned to appear before court. The police continue to investigate the matter, having initially invited him to the Ashanti Regional Police Command in Kumasi for questioning.

    The peace pact event, organized by the National Peace Council, brought together representatives of all political parties and their presidential candidates at the Kempinski Hotel, Gold Coast City, Accra, under the theme: Pursuing Peaceful Elections, Non-Violence and Justice.

    In his speech, Mahama also commended Ghana’s security agencies for their professionalism and urged them to remain impartial during the elections. “I urge you to remain impartial and professional in your duties, ensuring that all citizens can exercise their rights to vote without fear or intimidation,” he stated.

  • Promote balanced and accurate reporting on 2024 polls – Mahama to media

    Promote balanced and accurate reporting on 2024 polls – Mahama to media

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has cautioned the media against providing inaccurate and unbalanced reporting ahead, during, and after the 2024 elections.

    Speaking at the national event for the signing of the peace pact, he stated, “To our media practitioners, I encourage you to promote balanced and accurate reporting. We must avoid misleading the electorates by deceiving them that some parties are going to vote one day and others are going to vote on another day.”

    He added, “we must avoid sensationalism and speculation and focus on providing credible information that promotes peace and understanding.”

    The former president also commended the security agencies for their tireless efforts and entreated them to continue displaying professionalism in carrying out their duties prior, during, and after the election.

    “I urge you to remain impartial and professional in your duties, ensuring that all citizens can exercise their rights to vote without fear or intimidation,” he added.

    He reiterated the opposition party’s commitment to ensuring Ghana’s peace is not tainted during this year’s election.

    Mr Mahama remarked that although the NDC will protect the country’s peace, the onus lies on all to play their part in safeguarding the country’s peace.

    “We are all too aware of the devastating consequences of electoral violence in other countries. We cannot afford to traverse that same path. As patriotic citizens, we have a collective responsibility to ensure our country remains a beacon of peace and stability in our sub region and we in the NDC stand prepared to play our part to achieve this,” he said.

    The National Peace Council met with representatives from all political parties and their presidential candidates ahead of the 2024 election today to sign a peace pact that will bind candidates to promote national unity and stability.

    The event took place at the Kempinski Hotel, Gold Coast City, Accra, under the theme: Pursuing Peaceful Elections, Non-Violence and Justice.

  • NDC stands prepared to sustain Ghana’s peace in 2024 polls – Mahama

    NDC stands prepared to sustain Ghana’s peace in 2024 polls – Mahama

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has reiterated the opposition party’s commitment to ensuring Ghana’s peace is not tainted during this year’s election.

    In attendance for the signing of the peace pact, he remarked that although the NDC will protect the country’s peace, the onus lies on all to play their part in safeguarding the country’s peace.

    “We are all too aware of the devastating consequences of electoral violence in other countries. We cannot afford to traverse that same path. As patriotic citizens, we have a collective responsibility to ensure our country remains a beacon of peace and stability in our sub region and we in the NDC stand prepared to play our part to achieve this,” he said.

    The National Peace Council met with representatives from all political parties and their presidential candidates ahead of the 2024 election today to sign a peace pact that will bind candidates to promote national unity and stability.

    The event took place at the Kempinski Hotel, Gold Coast City, Accra, under the theme: Pursuing Peaceful Elections, Non-Violence and Justice.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) earlier announced its decision not to sign a proposed peace pact aimed at promoting peaceful conduct among political parties in the upcoming December 7 general elections.

    The NDC expressed concerns that the Peace Council, which is leading the initiative, has not created a balanced and inclusive atmosphere conducive to fair engagement among all political parties.

    While the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, publicly reaffirmed his commitment to peace at the launch of the NDC’s National Peace Campaign, the party believes the Peace Council has not sufficiently engaged with all stakeholders or addressed issues critical to ensuring electoral fairness.

  • List of polling stations for special voting on Dec 2

    List of polling stations for special voting on Dec 2

    The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced that the special voting exercise ahead of the December 7 general elections will take place on Monday, December 2, across 328 designated polling stations nationwide.

    The exercise is exclusively reserved for members of the security agencies, media personnel, and electoral officials who applied and were approved to vote ahead of the main elections.

    Addressing the National Security Task Force, chaired by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa expressed confidence in the Commission’s preparedness for the exercise.

    “We are confident that we will have a successful special voting arrangement on Monday. We have adequate supplies of ballot papers, indelible ink, the necessary forms, and biometric verification devices to ensure a smooth and seamless special voting exercise,” she assured.

    Jean Mensa emphasized the Commission’s readiness to oversee peaceful, credible, and transparent elections both on December 2 for the special voting and December 7 for the general polls.

    While individuals eligible for the special voting exercise can verify their registration status on the EC’s website, checks by The Independent Ghana indicate that the special voter list remains inaccessible.

    special_voting_stations_11102024Download
  • Special voting exercise will be peaceful, credible and transparent – EC

    Special voting exercise will be peaceful, credible and transparent – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has expressed its readiness to conduct the special voting exercise slated for Monday, December 2, ahead of the December 7 polls.

    The exercise taking place in 328 special voting centres is exclusive to members of the security agencies, media, and electoral officials who have applied and been processed to cast their ballot.

    In an engagement with the National Security Task Force, led by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, said: “We are confident that we will have a successful special voting arrangements on Monday. We have adequate supply of ballot papers, indelible ink and the various forms that may be necessary, and the biometric verification devices are in place for a smooth and seamless special voting exercise.”

    “We stand in readiness. We are ready to conduct a peaceful, credible, transparent and fair elections on December 2 and December 7,” Jean Mensa added.

    The individuals who have registered can verify their participation on the website of the Commission, Jean Mensa stated. However, the special voter list on the EC’s website is inaccessible, per checks by The Independent Ghana.

    Reacting to safety concerns, Dr Dampare, on behalf of the National Election Task Force, indicated that the security officers will work with the Commission to have a successful exercise.

    “We are clear in our minds on all the issues that you need and want us to address so that that aspect will be successful. We will work wit you and your technical team to firm up,” the IGP said.

    A little over 900,00 new voters have been added to the voter register ahead of the polls. The finalised voter register has been disseminated to the various political parties, according to the Commission.

    Ballot papers for most regions and all registers have already been dispatched to the 16 regions, except for the Northern, Bono, and Bono East Regions. The ballot papers for the afformentioned regions are in the custody of the security services via the police armories.

    The EC will use aid memoirs—that will be pasted at vantage points—polling stations, polling centres, during the election to assist electorates on correction of forms and other grey areas.

    On security issues, Dr Dampare assured Ghanaians of a peaceful election process. He stressed that “we’ll do all it takes to ensure that this country continues to be at peace with itself. We will protect every Ghanaian, and we will protect every stakeholder in this election.”

  • Efutu independent PC remanded by court; to reappear on Dec 1

    Efutu independent PC remanded by court; to reappear on Dec 1

    Louisa Buabeng, an independent parliamentary candidate contesting the Effutu seat, has been remanded by the Winneba High Court on charges of conspiracy to commit a crime. She is expected to reappear in court on Monday, December 1, 2024.

    Buabeng’s legal troubles stem from an incident involving voter ID cards allegedly discovered at the residence of her aide, who has also been charged with unlawful possession of documents.

    Initially arrested on November 20, Buabeng was re-arrested on Wednesday evening and presented in court this morning, where she was remanded for four days.

    Her arrest follows a series of allegations, including a prior petition accusing her of fraudulently procuring the signature of an endorser for her candidacy. However, her lawyer, Jennifred Maurice Adjei, maintains that the claims are unfounded, highlighting that the Electoral Commission (EC) has cleared Buabeng, and she remains on the ballot for the December 7 parliamentary elections.

    https://twitter.com/Citi973/status/1862118151132942739

  • LIVESTREAMING: Signing of the 4th presidential elections peace pact 2024

    LIVESTREAMING: Signing of the 4th presidential elections peace pact 2024

    The National Peace Council will today meet with representatives from all political parties and their presidential candidates ahead of the 2024 election.

    The meeting, which comes nine days before the December 7 election, aims to sign a peace pact that will bind candidates to promote national unity and stability.

    The event is happening at the Kempinski Hotel, Gold Coast City, Accra, under the theme: Pursuing Peaceful Elections, Non-Violence and Justice.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended its decision not to sign a proposed peace pact aimed at promoting peaceful conduct among political parties in the upcoming December 7 general elections.

    The NDC has expressed concerns that the Peace Council, which is leading the initiative, has not created a balanced and inclusive atmosphere conducive to fair engagement among all political parties.

    While the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, publicly reaffirmed his commitment to peace at the launch of the NDC’s National Peace Campaign, the party believes the Peace Council has not sufficiently engaged with all stakeholders or addressed issues critical to ensuring electoral fairness.

  • Mahama built hospitals in Accra; Akufo-Addo is building one in every district – Ofosu Nkansah

    Mahama built hospitals in Accra; Akufo-Addo is building one in every district – Ofosu Nkansah

    Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship & Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, has drawn a sharp contrast between the health infrastructure efforts of President Akufo-Addo and former President John Dramani Mahama.

    According to Nkansah, the current administration’s Agenda 111 project demonstrates an unprecedented commitment to equitable healthcare delivery across Ghana.

    In a Facebook post on Thursday, November 28, Nkansah commended President Akufo-Addo for pursuing an ambitious vision of building hospitals in every district, describing it as a game-changer in national development.

    He criticized former President Mahama’s approach, claiming it was concentrated in the Greater Accra Region at the expense of the rest of the country. “On which President did better with providing Health Infrastructure, President Akufo-Addo has ensured every District is getting a hospital, whereas Fmr. Prez Mahama built 3 or 4 big hospitals in Greater Accra, if we even grant him UGMC, which is a Prez Mills project,” Nkansah stated.

    He argued that the comparison between the two leaders in terms of healthcare development is clear, emphasizing that President Akufo-Addo’s focus on district-level healthcare facilities reflects a broader, more inclusive strategy.

    “Some people in Accra will draw conclusions based on 4 facilities in Gt. Accra when one president is touching every part of the country. The difference is not even close,” he added.

  • 1,006 arrested for cyber fraud worth $193M in Ghana,18 other African countries – INTERPOL

    1,006 arrested for cyber fraud worth $193M in Ghana,18 other African countries – INTERPOL

    In two months, Ghana and 18 other African countries apprehended a total of 1,006 suspects behind ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), digital extortion, and online scams, according to the 2024 Africa Cyber Threat Assessment Report by INTERPOL.

    Operation Serengeti, which spanned from 2 September to 31 October, dismantled 134,089 malicious infrastructures and networks thanks to a joint operation by INTERPOL and AFRIPOL against cybercrime.

    During the operation, more than 35,000 victims were identified, and the cases have been linked to nearly USD 193 million in financial losses worldwide.

    In Angola, authorities arrested 150 individuals and seized 200 computers and over 100 mobile phones, thereby dismantling a global criminal network running a virtual casino in Luanda that targeted Brazilian and Nigerian gamblers. The operation, which promised commission-based incentives for recruiting new members, defrauded hundreds.

    Eight individuals, including five Chinese nationals, were apprehended in Senegal for operating a USD 6 million Ponzi scheme that defrauded 1,811 victims. A search of their residence revealed over 900 SIM cards, USD 11,000 in cash, electronic devices, and identification documents belonging to their victims.

    Multiple phones recovered as part of evidence

    In Cameroon, a group that operated a scheme that generated over USD 150,000 in membership fees was arrested for trafficking victims from seven countries to operate a deceptive multi-level marketing scheme. Victims were required to pay membership fees and were promised jobs or training, only to be held captive and forced to recruit others to secure their release.

    Items recovered in Cameroon. Credit – INTERPOL

    Kenyan authorities uncovered a significant online credit card fraud operation responsible for USD 8.6 million in losses. The criminals manipulated banking system security protocols to run fraudulent scripts, transferring stolen funds via SWIFT to businesses in the UAE, Nigeria, and China, as well as to regulated digital asset institutions across multiple jurisdictions. Nearly 20 suspects have been arrested in connection with the scheme.

    Also, Nigerian authorities detained a man accused of running fraudulent online investment schemes, amassing more than USD 300,000 by promising high returns on cryptocurrency investments via messaging platforms.

    According to INTERPOL, information provided by participating countries including Rwanda, Mauritius and Mozambique, of ongoing cases fed into 65 Cyber Analytical Reports that were produced to ensure actions on the ground were intelligence-led and focused on the most significant actors.

    “Private sector partners, including Internet Service Providers, also played a vital role by sharing intelligence, supporting analysis and disrupting criminal activities. They provided on-site support and offered round-the-clock remote assistance to patch vulnerabilities and secure critical infrastructure for the participating member countries,” INTERPOL noted.

    Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary General of INTERPOL, has bemoaned the increasing volume and sophistication of cybercrime attacks, indicating that it “is of serious concern” due to the movement from multi-level marketing scams to credit card fraud on an industrial scale.

    “Operation Serengeti shows what we can achieve by working together, and these arrests alone will save countless potential future victims from real personal and financial pain. We know that this is just the tip of the iceberg, which is why we will continue targeting these criminal groups worldwide.”

    Ambassador Jalel Chelba, AFRIPOL’s Executive Director said although his outfit has facilitated key arrests and deepened insights into cybercrime trends, “our focus now includes emerging threats like AI-driven malware and advanced attack techniques.”

    Operation Serengeti was carried out with funding of the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the German Federal Foreign Office and the Council of Europe.

    On a global scale, an operation involving law enforcement from 40 countries, territories and regions has ended with the arrest of over 5,500 financial crime suspects and the seizure of more than USD 400 million in virtual assets and government-backed currencies.

    The five-month Operation HAECHI V (July – November 2024) targeted seven types of cyber-enabled frauds: voice phishing, romance scams, online sextortion, investment fraud, illegal online gambling, business email compromise fraud and e-commerce fraud.

    INTERPOL also issued a Purple Notice during Operation HAECHI V to warn countries about an emerging cryptocurrency fraud practice involving stablecoin. Member countries were alerted to the “USDT Token Approval Scam” which allows fraudsters to access and control victims’ cryptocurrency wallets.

    The two-step approach first lures in victims using romance baiting techniques, instructing them to buy popular Tether stablecoins (USDT Tokens) via a legitimate platform. Once the scammers have gained their trust, the victims are provided with a phishing link claiming to allow them to set up their investment account.

  • Court issues 2-year suspended death sentence to former Bank of China Chair for bribery, others

    Court issues 2-year suspended death sentence to former Bank of China Chair for bribery, others

    Former Bank of China chairman Liu Liange on Tuesday received a suspended death sentence for bribery and illegal loan issuance, state media reported, according to Reuters.

    He was sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve by a court in China’s Shandong province. The sentence, per reports, will be executed if he commits further crimes during the period. He would have a life sentence if reprieved.

    China’s anti-graft watchdog has intensified its crackdown on the financial sector, targeting high-profile figures such as Liu Liange, former chairman of the Bank of China, and Fan Yifei, a former deputy central bank governor sentenced to death in October for accepting bribes, with a two-year reprieve.

    According to state broadcaster CCTV, Liu was found guilty of abusing his position to secure promotions for others and accepting bribes totaling more than 121 million yuan ($17 million). While the court acknowledged Liu’s confession and the recovery of most of the illicit funds, it opted to delay the enforcement of the death penalty.

    During his tenure at China Export-Import Bank and the Bank of China, Liu unlawfully approved loans exceeding 3.32 billion yuan, resulting in losses of over 190 million yuan, CCTV reported.

    Liu, born in 1961, had a decades-long career in banking and finance, holding roles at the People’s Bank of China and the Export-Import Bank of China before being promoted to chairman of the Bank of China in 2019.

    In October 2023, the Chinese Communist Party expelled Liu, accusing him of illegal activities and corruption.

  • 8 injured in accident on Accra-Cape Coast highway

    8 injured in accident on Accra-Cape Coast highway

    Eight people sustained injuries in a road accident at Nananom Junction on the Accra-Cape Coast highway on Wednesday, with one victim trapped in a mangled vehicle.

    A rescue team from the Mankessim Fire Station, led by ADO II B. Eduful, responded to the incident at 10:48 a.m. The crash involved a Sprinter Mini Bus, a Hyundai Hi Mini Cargo, and a Toyota Hiace.

    Upon arriving at 10:50 a.m., the team worked to extricate the trapped victim, completing the rescue at 11:10 a.m. The other eight casualties had already been transported to the Mercy Women’s Catholic Hospital in Mankessim before the rescue team arrived.

    The cause of the crash is under investigation, but the impact caused significant damage to the front sections of the vehicles and resulted in the loss of several cartons of fresh fish being transported at the time.

  • Students at Amasaman destroy portions of school over reckless use of fire crackers

    Students at Amasaman destroy portions of school over reckless use of fire crackers

    A group of students in a school at Kpobikope-Amasaman in the Greater Accra Region have burnt a classroom to ashes due to the reckless use of fire crackers.

    The fire crackers got into contact with flammable materials nearby, causing a fire outbreak on Thursday, November 29.

    Officers from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded to an emergency call and, upon arrival, worked to contain and prevent the fire from further spreading.

    After extinguishing the flames, the GNFS reported damage to one classroom, saving several others. Per the GNFS report, no casualties were reported.

    It is common practice in Ghana to use fire crackers during the festive season in December. To avert any fire outbreaks, the Greater Accra Regional Fire Command has advised the public to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using fire crackers and keep fire extinguishers nearby.

    The GNFS stressed “avoiding flammable materials to ensure a safe festive season.”

    Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service has urged Ghanaians to consider gifting fire extinguishers instead of hampers this Christmas to promote fire safety at home.

    “It is old fashion. Buy people fire extinguishers to protect themselves at home. Instead of doing hampers, you can get a nice ribbon on the fire extinguisher and give it to someone as a gift,” the GNFS Public Relations Officer, Mr. Alex King Nartey, said in an interview with JoyNews.

    The call comes in the wake of alarming statistics, with Ghana recording 4,650 fire incidents between January and September 2024.

  • Chief Justice to take Justice clubs nationwide next year to promote rule of law

    Chief Justice to take Justice clubs nationwide next year to promote rule of law

    Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has announced plans to expand Justice Clubs across the regions of Ghana in 2025 as part of efforts to promote the rule of law, legality, and justice among young people.

    Speaking at the 2024 Enhanced Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme in Accra on Wednesday, she highlighted the Judiciary’s commitment to deepening public engagement and making its work accessible through purposeful interactions.

    “Next year, we will be on the road to inaugurate more Justice Clubs in the regions of Ghana,” she said.

    The mentoring programme, themed “I Pledge Myself to the Service of Ghana,” brought together students from six schools with established Justice Clubs—St. Mary’s Senior High School, Accra High School, Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High School, SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College, Chemu Senior High Technical School, and Tema Senior High School. Other participating groups included the Orange Girls (Kayayei) and the United Nations Youth Association.

    Chief Justice Torkornoo emphasized that Justice Clubs are designed to positively influence schools, families, and communities by instilling values of law, legality, and justice, while also boosting the confidence of young people. She encouraged students to participate in clubs and societies, noting that these activities promote ethical values, leadership skills, and resilience.

    “The rationale behind the proposal to introduce Justice Clubs into schools and communities is to deepen understanding of the rule of law, legality, and justice, thereby promoting those fundamental principles throughout the nation,” she said.

    Touching on the theme, the Chief Justice underscored the importance of service to the nation, urging students to embrace their ability to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development.

    “We are one nation, one people, and have one destiny. We must build this nation ourselves and enjoy it ourselves. But we can only do so if we all contribute to equipping each other with what we have for the task,” she said.

    Mrs. Efua Ghartey, President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), encouraged contributions to building a just, equitable, and prosperous society, describing the legal profession as a calling that extends beyond courtrooms.

    “Lawyers are architects of justice, guides of human rights, and agents of social change… Lawyers have been at the forefront of national progress,” she said.

    Veteran lawyer Sam Okudzeto advised the students to embrace humility and learn from experienced superiors while adopting technology in their legal education. Justice Eric Kyei Baffour, a Court of Appeal Judge, urged students to seek divine guidance, believe in their abilities, and work hard to achieve their aspirations.

    The programme concluded with participants observing court proceedings and engaging with judges and lawyers from both the Superior and Lower Courts, offering them firsthand insights into the workings of the judiciary.

  • Bawumia takes a ride with ‘kayayo’ driver in Ghana’s new electric bus

    Bawumia takes a ride with ‘kayayo’ driver in Ghana’s new electric bus

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was driven by Mary Lalako Agboli, a trained Kayayo (female head porter), in one of the newly commissioned electric buses during a graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, November 27.

    The ceremony marked the conclusion of a skills development programme designed to train Kayayei in driving, aiming to enhance their employability and improve their livelihoods.

    The initiative, part of broader efforts to support marginalised groups, also coincided with the commissioning of the electric buses by Dr. Bawumia, who is the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Speaking at the event, the Vice President emphasized the government’s dual commitment to sustainable transportation and human capital development.

    He described the electric buses as a step toward modernizing the country’s transport sector while addressing environmental concerns by reducing Ghana’s carbon footprint.

    A video of the event has since circulated on social media, showing Mary Dadago confidently navigating the electric bus with Dr. Bawumia on board.

    The footage has drawn public attention to the programme’s potential impact on empowering participants and promoting sustainable technology.

    The government has indicated plans to extend similar programmes to other groups, aiming to foster inclusivity and socio-economic development through skills training and innovation.

    https://twitter.com/i/status/1862066755851399608

  • Police release toll-free, cash reward for reporting plans to disrupt 2024 elections

    Police release toll-free, cash reward for reporting plans to disrupt 2024 elections

    The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has introduced a toll-free number, 0800311311, to enable the public to report plans or activities aimed at disrupting the upcoming 2024 general elections.

    Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), announced the initiative during a meeting with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) in Accra. He emphasized that the reward system, which offers cash incentives ranging from GH¢1,000 to GH¢20,000, will be used to encourage citizens to provide useful information about threats to peace, while ensuring the confidentiality of informants.

    “If you find it difficult to bring the information one-on-one, a toll-free number, 0800311311, has been introduced for that purpose,” Dr. Dampare said.

    The initiative is part of the efforts by the Elections Security Taskforce, chaired by the IGP, to collaborate with stakeholders and ensure a peaceful electoral process. The Taskforce includes various security agencies such as the military, Immigration Service, Prisons Service, Fire Service, and GPS.

    Brigadier General K.D. Hagan, in charge of Operations, Training, Communication, and Peacekeeping at the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), reassured the public about the military’s role in election security. He stated that the police would lead the efforts, with the military only stepping in as reinforcement when necessary.

    “Be rest assured that we shall not be there but only at identified flash points or hot spots, and we will not intervene until Police asks us to assist.

    “We are humans as you are, and we will not be there to molest anyone.

    “If things get out of the hands of the Taskforce, we will use small energy to get things done,” Brig. Gen. Hagan said.

    Professor Eliasu Mumuni, National Secretary for UTAG, commended the police for maintaining peace and involving the academic community in discussions about election security. He pledged UTAG’s commitment to advocating for peaceful elections.

  • Police to reward people who tip off plans to disrupt 2024 polls

    Police to reward people who tip off plans to disrupt 2024 polls

    The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has introduced a cash reward system to encourage the public to provide information that could prevent disturbances during the 2024 general elections.

    Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), announced that individuals who offer useful information about threats to peace will receive cash rewards ranging from GH¢1,000 to GH¢20,000, depending on the significance of the information. He also assured that the identities of informants would remain confidential.

    The IGP made the announcement during a meeting with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) in Accra, as part of the ongoing efforts by the Elections Security Taskforce to engage stakeholders and discuss security measures for peaceful elections.

    “If you find it difficult to bring the information one-on-one, a toll-free number, 0800311311, has been introduced for that purpose,” Dr. Dampare said.

    He urged UTAG to contribute to the Taskforce’s operational plans for peaceful elections and use their platforms to preach the message of peace.

    The Elections Security Taskforce, chaired by the IGP, includes various security agencies such as the military, Immigration Service, Prisons Service, Fire Service, and GPS, all working together to ensure a secure electoral process.

    Brigadier General K.D. Hagan, who oversees Operations, Training, Communication, and Peacekeeping at the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), addressed concerns about the military’s involvement in election security. He clarified that the police would lead the security efforts, while the military would only be called upon for reinforcement if necessary.

    “Be rest assured that we shall not be there but only at identified flash points or hot spots, and we will not intervene until Police asks us to assist.

    “We are humans as you are, and we will not be there to molest anyone.

    “If things get out of the hands of the Taskforce, we will use small energy to get things done,” Brig. Gen. Hagan said.

    Professor Eliasu Mumuni, the National Secretary for UTAG, commended the police for maintaining peace in the country and appreciated the Taskforce’s efforts to include the academic community in election security discussions. He assured the Taskforce that UTAG would intensify advocacy to promote peaceful elections.

  • Ghana among top 5 visa-open destinations

    Ghana among top 5 visa-open destinations

    Ghana has been ranked fifth on the latest Africa Visa Openness Index (AVOI), reflecting its commitment to fostering easier travel access across the continent.

    The index, published by the African Union Commission and the African Development Bank (AfDB), measures how freely travelers can enter a country, focusing on visa policies and ease of entry.

    Ghana achieved a score of 0.868, placing it just behind the top-ranked nations—Benin, Seychelles, Gambia, and Rwanda—who share the number one position. The ranking underscores Ghana’s relatively liberal approach, where travelers can either enter visa-free or obtain a visa upon arrival, unlike restrictive systems that require pre-arranged visas.

    The 2024 report highlights notable progress in visa openness across Africa, with 17 countries improving their scores in the past year. This builds on the gains made in previous editions, bringing the total number of countries that have enhanced their scores since 2016 to 39. While 29 nations maintained their scores, eight saw declines.

    “Visa openness across Africa is now at its highest since we began tracking it nine years ago. This reflects a shared continental effort to ease travel and promote collaboration,” remarked Nnenna Lily Nwabufo, Vice President of Regional Development, Integration, and Business Delivery at the AfDB.

    Despite advancements, challenges remain. Many Africans still encounter significant visa barriers when traveling within the continent, hampering tourism, trade, and entrepreneurial opportunities. AU Commissioner Minata Samate Cessouma stressed the need for greater political will to address these obstacles. “While progress is evident, reluctance from some nations remains. Emerging success stories can inspire further commitments to facilitate cross-border movement, especially for business and services,” she said.

    The report also sheds light on Africa’s evolving e-visa systems, noting their expansion from 24 platforms to 263 over the past year. However, inconsistencies in processes persist, ranging from straightforward digital applications to hybrid models requiring collection at entry points. Joy Kategekwa, Director of the Regional Integration Coordination Office at the AfDB, emphasized the need for mobility to unlock Africa’s economic potential. “To achieve industrialization and benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), seamless movement of people is essential—not just for skills but for access to new jobs,” she stated.

    The African Union continues to advocate for the implementation of the Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, signed in 2018 by 30 countries. The protocol envisions a phased approach to movement, encompassing the right of entry, residence, and establishment, to pave the way for a truly integrated continent.

  • You should be preparing your soul for heaven; stop lying – Mahama to Akufo-Addo over ‘dumsor’

    You should be preparing your soul for heaven; stop lying – Mahama to Akufo-Addo over ‘dumsor’

    Former President John Mahama has descended heavily on President Akufo-Addo over claims that intermittent power outages (dumsor) were not resolved before he left office.

    President Nana Akufo-Addo, in a recent address claimed that, unlike other past presidents who are remembered for their significant contributions, Mr. Mahama’s legacy is tied to “Dumsor” — the frequent power outages that plagued his administration.

    During the commissioning of the Sekyere Afram Plains District Hospital in Drobonso on Monday, 25th November, he said: “If he couldn’t maintain a 12-hour power supply during his presidency, how can he promise a 24-hour economy? Stop the lies,” he stated.

    In a rebuttal, the former president referenced Proverbs 19:9, encouraging the president to desist from lying and focus on preparing himself for heaven as liar would not be allowed access to God’s kingdom.

    “You know, liars cannot go to heaven. And let me give you a Bible quotation, Proverbs Chapter 19:9, he said, those who bear false witness will not go unpunished and the liars will be destroyed. If you lie, you will not go to heaven. At his age, he should be preparing his soul for heaven. So if you stop lying.”

    He added, “I expect that when NPP is telling lies, they’ll leave it to the younger ones and the junior ones to do. But when the senior ones like Nana Akufo-Addo says that Dumsor was not solved before we came, I heard him say that if we could not keep the lights on, how can we run 24-hour economy. In 2016 dumsor had been solved. Nobody’s lights went off in 2016 nobody had load shedding in 2016 that is on record,” he responded.

    https://twitter.com/metrotvgh/status/1861505539689046222

  • US Court jails Ghanaian 63 months for wire fraud, to repay $2.18m in restitution

    US Court jails Ghanaian 63 months for wire fraud, to repay $2.18m in restitution

    The United States Attorney’s Office has reported the sentencing of a Ghanaian man, Wigbert Bandie, 34 for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1349 and 1343.

    He will be spending 63 months in prison after pleading guilty to the charge as part of a plea agreement filed with the court. The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  

    Following his incarceration, Bandie will be on supervised release for three years. Bandie has also been ordered to repay $2.18 million in restitution to the 11 victims in this case.

    According to the filed court papers, Bandie, along with members of the conspiracy, assumed false identities on social media, dating websites, and other internet-based platforms in a scheme to trick primarily elderly victims into entering friendships and romantic relationships.  Bandie then played various roles in exploiting those connections to convince individuals to send them money via wire, check, U.S. mail, and package delivery services.

    As part of the conspiracy, romance scammers or “handlers” posed as potential friends or romantic partners and entered online relationships with unwitting victims, many of whom were elderly. The relationships usually developed quickly through social media contact, text messages, email, and phone calls.

    Once the victim was clearly engaged in the scam, the scammer would begin to ask for emergency financial assistance or dupe victims into non-existent investment opportunities. 

    If the victim sent money, the scammer would ask for increasingly larger amounts of financial assistance.  There were victims throughout the United States who each lost amounts ranging from several thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars.  For example, one victim who resided in the Eastern District of Tennessee lost over $280,000 to this scheme over the course of several months.

    Other co-conspirators functioned as “money mules” in the conspiracy. That is, they worked in conjunction with other members of the conspiracy to move the financial proceeds of the scams from the United States overseas through bank wire transfers or through the mail. 

  • Police probe invasion of Metro TV by some of its officers

    Police probe invasion of Metro TV by some of its officers

    The Ghana Police Service says it has commenced an investigation into an incident that occurred at the premises of Metro TV in Accra this morning, Wednesday, 27th November.

    Preliminary Police investigations indicate that upon a request from the court, police officers accompanied a court bailiff in the company of the judgment creditor, Vodacom Business (Ghana) Limited, to execute a court order against Metro TV.

    Host of the Good Morning Ghana show on Metro TV, Randy Abbey, in a viral video, has recounted the manner in which some policemen ambushed him and sought to seize his vehicle at the car park of the media house yesterday.

    In a video gone viral, Mr Abbey noted that the officers indicated that they had secured a court order against Metro TV, hence their actions.

    He prevented this from happening, and this led to a tense situation that unfolded earlier this morning at the premises of Accra-based Metro TV, as a group of armed police officers, accompanied by other unidentified individuals, attempted to forcibly break into the station’s popular Good Morning Ghana show studio.

    https://twitter.com/olelesalvador/status/1861750609117954428?s=46

    https://twitter.com/SIKAOFFICIAL1/status/1861722533076079017

    The incident led to a clash between the police and the station’s staff, including a confrontation between host Randy Abbey and the officers.

    The station’s private security personnel tried to prevent the intrusion but were injured during the altercation. They are currently receiving medical attention for their injuries.

    https://twitter.com/ICEPLANT4/status/1861725191254032464

    In one of the viral videos circulating online, Randy Abbey, visibly shaken, confronted the police officers, questioning their motives for being at the station and attempting to breach the studio.

    This incident has raised concerns about press freedom in Ghana, especially when the country prepares to go to the polls in about 10 days.

    The Police are however, urging the public, particularly the management and staff of Metro TV, to remain calm and cooperate with the Police in the ongoing investigation.

    https://twitter.com/GhPoliceService/status/1861772947729400091

  • Economic Enclave Programme to revitalise the agricultural sector – Govt

    Economic Enclave Programme to revitalise the agricultural sector – Govt

    The government is ramping up efforts to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector through the Economic Enclave Programme, a key initiative under the Ghana CARES framework.

    In the Greater Accra Region, the project is taking shape at Kasunya/Dedukope in the Shai Osudoku District, where thousands of acres of rice farms have already been cultivated, with harvests currently underway.

    This ambitious programme is supported by state-of-the-art facilities designed to modernize agricultural practices. These include hostels, a training centre, irrigation systems, warehouses, modern farming equipment, and an equipment service centre.

    The initiative aims to equip farmers with the tools and knowledge necessary for efficient and sustainable farming, boosting productivity and ensuring food security.

    Similar agricultural enclaves have also been established in the Oti, Ashanti, and Northern Regions as part of the government’s broader strategy to revitalize the sector and promote nationwide agricultural development.

  • How policemen ambused Randy Abbey to seize his car due to a court order

    How policemen ambused Randy Abbey to seize his car due to a court order

    Host of the Good Morning Ghana show on Metro TV, Randy Abbey, has recounted the manner in which some policemen ambushed him and sought to seize his vehicle at the car park of the media house yesterday.

    In a video gone viral, Mr Abbey noted that the officers indicated that they had secured a court order against Metro TV, hence their actions.

    He prevented this from happening, and this led to a tense situation that unfolded earlier this morning at the premises of Accra-based Metro TV, as a group of armed police officers, accompanied by other unidentified individuals, attempted to forcibly break into the station’s popular Good Morning Ghana show studio.

    https://twitter.com/olelesalvador/status/1861750609117954428?s=46

    The incident led to a clash between the police and the station’s staff, including a confrontation between host Randy Abbey and the officers.

    The station’s private security personnel tried to prevent the intrusion but were injured during the altercation. They are currently receiving medical attention for their injuries.

    In one of the viral videos circulating online, Randy Abbey, visibly shaken, confronted the police officers, questioning their motives for being at the station and attempting to breach the studio.

    The reason for the police presence and their attempt to enter the studio remains unclear.

    This incident has raised concerns about press freedom in Ghana, especially when the country prepares to go to the polls in about 10 days.

    https://twitter.com/SIKAOFFICIAL1/status/1861722533076079017

    https://twitter.com/ICEPLANT4/status/1861725191254032464

  • Riding in pragia to chop 4th instead of being Bawumia’s running mate – Ofosu Nkansah jabs Alan

    Riding in pragia to chop 4th instead of being Bawumia’s running mate – Ofosu Nkansah jabs Alan

    Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, has mocked Alan Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change, over his campaign efforts ahead of the December 7 general elections.

    In a Facebook post on Wednesday, November 27, Ofosu Nkansah ridiculed Kyerematen for choosing to campaign independently instead of accepting a potential role as Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    He shared a video of Kyerematen riding in a pragia (a three-wheeled motorized tricycle) while soliciting votes, contrasting the scene with the prestige associated with being an NPP vice-presidential candidate.

    “When some of us suggested in the early days Chief Alan should partner Dr Bawumia to bring unity, the way some of his people insulted us. But NPP vice is obviously more dignified than riding in pragia to chop 4th,” Ofosu Nkansah wrote.

    The NEIP CEO suggested that Kyerematen’s decision to break away from the NPP has diminished his political stature and questioned the effectiveness of his presidential campaign, predicting a fourth-place finish in the elections.

  • Speaker Bagbin refuses to recall Parliament

    Speaker Bagbin refuses to recall Parliament

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has rejected a request from the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to recall Members of Parliament ahead of the December general elections.

    Bagbin insisted that parliamentary activities will remain on hold until after the elections, emphasizing that this period is critical for political parties and candidates to engage with the electorate.

    In a memo to the majority caucus on Wednesday, November 27, Speaker Bagbin stated: “The House will resume sitting after the elections to complete all essential matters before a seamless transition to the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.”

    He added that the national interest would be better served if Members of Parliament adhered to principles of “honour, empathy, and humility” in the execution of their duties. Bagbin concluded by declining the request, stating: “In the circumstances, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favour of your request. The request is accordingly declined.”

    The Speaker also reminded Afenyo-Markin of the parliamentary calendar, which recognizes the election campaign period as a time for parties and candidates to present their manifestoes and account for their stewardship.

    “This season is for the government, parties, and both presidential and parliamentary candidates to present their manifestoes to the people and to account and justify the mandate given them by the voters for the four-year term of office has been applied to the benefit of the people,” he noted.

    The Majority Leader’s petition, invoking Standing Orders 57(3) and 58(4), had stressed the urgency of reconvening Parliament to address unresolved legislative matters. However, the request follows a series of failed recalls earlier this year, including one on November 7, which was adjourned indefinitely after several New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs failed to attend the session.

    NDC MPs have opposed the latest recall request, citing concerns over its timing just days before the elections.

    “With barely eleven days to the elections, a recall at this time will only exacerbate the unresolved stalemate that has persisted in recent times,” a memo from the NDC caucus emphasized. “We must avoid anything that could disturb the peace of our country and the stability of our democracy. Instead, let us prioritize the conduct of credible, peaceful, free, and fair elections at this stage.”

  • Richard Dela Sky threatens to sue EC over limited media access to collation centres

    Richard Dela Sky threatens to sue EC over limited media access to collation centres

    Ghanaian journalist, Richard Dela Sky, has threatened to drag the Electoral Commission (EC) over its recent directive to limit media access to the constituency and regional collation centres during the 2024 general elections.

    Speaking on the Citibreakfast show today, he described the EC’s stance as rReckless, irresponsible,” threatening that “if they don’t withdraw this decision, I will sue…”

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has responded to growing concerns from media organizations about its recent directive.

    The directive, which imposes restrictions on the number of media outlets allowed at the collation centres, has garnered significant feedback from various media stakeholders.

    A memo from the EC instructed its staff at both district and regional levels to allocate a specific number of media accreditations for each centre.

    Under the new guidelines, only eight media outlets will be allowed at each constituency collation centre, while 12 will be permitted at regional centres. While the EC aims to maintain order, the limitations have sparked concerns about transparency and inclusiveness in the process.

    In response, the EC announced on November 27 that it is in discussions with the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) to address the concerns raised.

    https://twitter.com/Citi973/status/1861694358078071089

    The Commission assured stakeholders that it remains committed to finding a solution that balances transparency with an organized collation process.

    “As a listening Commission, we are engaging with the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) on the issue and trust that we will arrive at an arrangement that is both workable and acceptable.”

    The Electoral Commission (EC) reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring full transparency during the collation of election results, announcing that media access will be granted to all constituency, regional, and national collation centres.

    However, the EC also stressed the need to regulate the number of individuals allowed at these centres in order to maintain order and ensure a smooth and peaceful process.

    “The Commission is keen on ensuring the highest level of transparency in its operations, hence the opening up of all its Constituency, Regional and National Collation Centres to the Media.

    “In doing so, the Commission is mindful of the need to ensure an orderly and peaceful process at all the Collation Centres hence the quotas on the number of persons who can access the Collation Centres at any given time.”

    The Commission is optimistic that its discussions with the leadership of GJA and GIBA will lead to a satisfactory resolution.

    It believes these talks will allow media partners to perform their duties effectively, while ensuring the collation process remains transparent and efficient.

    Richard Dela Sky presently has a case at the Supreme Court where he is contesting the constitutionality of the anti-LGBTQ bill passed by Parliament in February this year. The court is expected to deliver its ruling next month.

  • Move forward and let go of the past – Hackman Owusu Agyeman advises ‘rude’ Alan

    Move forward and let go of the past – Hackman Owusu Agyeman advises ‘rude’ Alan

    Chairman of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Council of Elders, Hackman Owusu Agyeman, has strongly advised Alan Kyerematen to move forward and focus on the present, following his recent comments about former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s endorsement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the NPP flagbearer for the 2024 elections.

    Speaking in an interview with JoyNews on Monday, Mr. Owusu Agyeman criticized Kyerematen for what he called a “rude” critique of Kufuor, stressing that the former president had played a pivotal role in Kyerematen’s political career.

    “What President Kufuor has done for Mr. Kyerematen, I don’t think he has done it for anybody in this party and I don’t think it’s Mr. Kyerematen who says 70% of President Kufuor had to do came from him. Where was he? I can tell you that as Foreign Minister he was my ambassador to Washington and one of the biggest things we did was HIPC and when we were taking that decision, the people who were there were President Kufuor, J.H Mensah, Osafo Marfo, Baros Amos and myself and Ambassador Boris Chalker of the UK and it was President Kufuor who decided that we should go for it and it yielded the results.

    “And so if you sit in Washington and say that you gave the idea, I don’t get it. When I came back from the UN, I did nothing but to work for the party. The Constitution was written in my house and our first manifesto was written in my house. So I did nothing but to work for the party.”

    https://twitter.com/Joy997FM/status/1861176574017495369

    Mr. Owusu Agyeman also addressed Kyerematen’s remark questioning what Bawumia has done, calling it a display of “impunity.” He advised Kyerematen to accept the changing dynamics of the party and move forward.

    “For example, I thought I had the capacity to be flagbearer for the party but I don’t have the capacity now because what was needed at the time is different from this digital age with AI and all. So if at that time, President Kufuor thought that Mr. Kyerematen was the person for the moment, and he moved on after 20 years and he believes that this is the time to move forward, and so it is somebody else to do but to ask what has Bawumia done is the height of impunity and it was rude,” he stated.

    The controversy stems from Kyerematen’s comments on Kufuor’s endorsement of Dr. Bawumia. Kyerematen questioned how long the former president had known Bawumia to be supporting him and highlighted his own contributions during the Kufuor administration. This sparked a debate within the NPP.

    https://twitter.com/ChristDeKing/status/1858529343623905698/video/1

  • Armed police men attempt to break into Metro TV studio, clash with Randy Abbey

    Armed police men attempt to break into Metro TV studio, clash with Randy Abbey

    A tense situation unfolded earlier this morning at the premises of Accra-based Metro TV, as a group of armed police officers, accompanied by other unidentified individuals, attempted to forcibly break into the station’s popular Good Morning Ghana show studio.

    The incident led to a clash between the police and the station’s staff, including a confrontation between host Randy Abbey and the officers.

    The station’s private security personnel tried to prevent the intrusion but were injured during the altercation. They are currently receiving medical attention for their injuries.

    In one of the viral videos circulating online, Randy Abbey, visibly shaken, confronted the police officers, questioning their motives for being at the station and attempting to breach the studio.

    The reason for the police presence and their attempt to enter the studio remains unclear.

    This incident has raised concerns about press freedom in Ghana, especially when the country prepares to go to the polls in about 10 days.

    https://twitter.com/SIKAOFFICIAL1/status/1861722533076079017

    https://twitter.com/ICEPLANT4/status/1861725191254032464

  • ‘I want to harm myself’, Guardiola says and jets off

    ‘I want to harm myself’, Guardiola says and jets off

    Pep Guardiola has addressed the visible cuts and scratches on his head, spotted during and after Manchester City’s dramatic Champions League clash with Feyenoord at the Etihad Stadium.

    The City manager appeared with a cut on his nose and other marks on his head, prompting questions after a chaotic 3-3 draw that saw his team squander a 3-0 lead in the second half.

    “Yes, it’s my finger here. With my nail,” Guardiola said when asked about the injuries, before adding, “I wanted to harm myself,” followed by a laugh.

    https://twitter.com/JJxUTD/status/1861543900571107726

    Tuesday’s draw extended a dismal run of form for Manchester City, who had lost five consecutive matches in all competitions for the first time since 2006 before the game against Feyenoord. It marks the worst streak in Guardiola’s managerial career, with the Catalan coach never previously enduring more than three straight losses during his time at City, Bayern Munich, or Barcelona.

    The pressure is only set to intensify for City, who now prepare for a daunting trip to face Premier League leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

    Reflecting on the game, Guardiola admitted his team is “fragile,” as Erling Haaland’s brace and Ilkay Gundogan’s goal were undone by Feyenoord’s spirited comeback. The Dutch side capitalized on defensive errors from Josko Gvardiol, with goals from Anis Hadj Moussa, Santiago Gimenez, and David Hancko delighting their 5,000 traveling supporters.

    The final whistle was met with boos from some stunned City fans, but Guardiola insisted he understood the reaction.

    “Last game against Tottenham, 0-4, they were there, the supporters, with applause,” he said. “They are disappointed, of course, we understand it. They have done it properly.

    “People come here not to remember the success of the past. They come here today to see the team win and perform well, and we have to do so.

    “They support us all the time. When we go away, our fans are amazing. Of course, they are completely right to express what they feel, absolutely.”

    Guardiola also defended Gvardiol, despite the young defender’s costly mistakes.

    “He is so young, he will learn. It will be a good experience,” Guardiola said. “The way he has played – he was the best player on the pitch, but I will be so wrong if I point specific things for our defeat.

    “He is young and he will learn. He is a fantastic player, fantastic boy, and now more than ever must be helped.”

  • Paul Adom-Otchere dragged to court for defamation, plaintiff demands GHC40m in damages

    Paul Adom-Otchere dragged to court for defamation, plaintiff demands GHC40m in damages

    The former Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Dr. Tony Aubynn, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Paul Adom-Otchere, host of Good Evening Ghana. The suit, filed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, also names Ignite Media Group as the second defendant.

    Dr. Aubynn, who currently serves as the Abakoma-Akyempimhene of the Damang-Wassa Division within the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area in the Western Region, alleges that remarks made by Mr. Adom-Otchere on his show were defamatory and intended to tarnish his reputation among “right-thinking members of society.”

    The plaintiff is seeking a High Court order in Accra to compel Mr. Adom-Otchere to issue a “retraction and an unqualified apology” using the same media platforms where the alleged defamatory statements were made.

    Additionally, Dr. Aubynn is requesting a perpetual injunction to prevent the defendants and their associates from making further similar publications. He is also demanding general damages of GH¢30 million for the harm caused to his reputation, as well as punitive and exemplary damages of GH¢10 million.

    According to the plaintiff, the remarks portrayed him as “a dishonest, selfish, hypocritical, unpatriotic, corrupt, dishonorable, unscrupulous member of society who has the habit of inciting illegal miners to act in a manner as to destroy the environment.” These statements, he contends, “in their true and natural sense, have exposed the Plaintiff to public ridicule and contempt in the eyes of right-thinking members of society.”

    In his statement of claim, Dr. Aubynn highlighted several particulars of malice, stating that:

    • “The Defendants deliberately published the said defamatory statements and caused same to be widely circulated and distributed, knowing very well that same were false and/or with no honest belief in the truthfulness of the claims, to whip up negative public sentiments against the Plaintiff.”
    • “The Defendants deliberately, maliciously, and/or recklessly published the said impugned publications on the said show without considering the extent to which making such untruths can go to harm the reputation of the Plaintiff.”
    • “The 1st Defendant actually lied confidently and repeatedly that the statements made by the said ‘second speaker’ were made by the Plaintiff, in order to achieve his objective of defaming the Plaintiff.”

    Dr. Aubynn further stated that the defendants “failed, neglected, and/or deliberately refused or failed to contact the Plaintiff directly to clear all or any doubts about whether or not the Plaintiff was in fact the second speaker or made the statements ascribed to him.”

    The lawsuit, which underscores the plaintiff’s claims of malicious intent and disregard for journalistic standards, seeks to hold the defendants accountable for the alleged damage caused to his reputation.

  • Kumasi youth replace toy guns with vuvuzelas and balloons after Police crackdown

    Kumasi youth replace toy guns with vuvuzelas and balloons after Police crackdown

    Youth in Kumasi have swapped toy guns for vuvuzelas and balloons following a police crackdown that led to the arrest of 26 individuals for public disturbances involving toy weapons.

    The recent trend in the Ashanti Region saw young people turning streets, malls, and neighborhoods into mock battlegrounds, engaging in dramatic toy gun battles that sometimes mimicked robbery scenarios. Videos circulating on X (formerly Twitter) showed participants using toy guns fitted with firecrackers, adding a theatrical flair to the activities.

    The Ghana Police Service stepped in, arresting participants for breaching public peace. The suspects are currently assisting with investigations, and a quantity of toy guns has been confiscated. The arrested individuals will be arraigned in court, while special operations continue to apprehend others involved in similar acts.

    To avoid arrest, the youth have pivoted to using vuvuzelas and balloons in their street activities. However, the shift has sparked fresh concerns, with many criticizing the loud and disruptive noise caused by the vuvuzelas as a new form of nuisance.

    The police have cautioned the public, reminding them that acts causing breaches of the peace contravene Section 207 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). Investigations remain ongoing to address the situation and maintain order.

    https://twitter.com/eddie_wrt/status/1861518579146899494

  • Petroleum Hub Project set to provide thousands of jobs – CEO

    Petroleum Hub Project set to provide thousands of jobs – CEO

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, Charles Owusu, has announced that Ghana’s Petroleum Hub Project will create thousands of job opportunities for the country’s youth.

    Speaking in a recent public address, Mr. Owusu emphasized the transformative potential of the project to generate employment within the expanding energy sector. He encouraged young Ghanaians to submit their personal data for consideration in a training programme scheduled to commence in January 2025.

    The training initiative, he explained, will equip participants with the skills and qualifications needed to seize the emerging opportunities in the project.

    Mr. Owusu also called on the youth to support the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming elections, noting that a strong mandate for the party would facilitate the smooth execution of the training programmes and the broader development objectives of the Petroleum Hub.

    The Petroleum Hub Project forms part of the government’s strategic plan to harness Ghana’s energy resources to drive economic growth and create sustainable employment opportunities for its citizens.

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  • NEIP boss lists over 200 hospitals built by Akufo-Addo

    NEIP boss lists over 200 hospitals built by Akufo-Addo

    The Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, has lauded President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for constructing over 200 hospitals during his tenure.

    In a Facebook post on Tuesday, November 26, Mr. Ofosu Nkansah described this achievement as unprecedented in Ghana’s history, emphasizing that it cements President Akufo-Addo’s status as the leader who has built the most hospitals in the country.

    “President Akufo-Addo has built over 200 hospitals. Over 60 completed so far. He holds the record as the President to have built most hospitals. Yesterday, he commissioned four (4) VAMED hospitals at a go in the Ashanti Region,” he stated.

    Highlighting the recent hospital inaugurations, Mr. Ofosu Nkansah mentioned the newly commissioned Sabronum Government Hospital, Sekyere Afram Plains District Hospital, Suame Municipal Hospital, and Twedie Government Hospital.

    He noted that these developments reflect the administration’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare across the nation, a legacy he believes will leave an indelible mark on Ghana’s health sector.

    Below are is the list of the said hospitals built.

    COMPLETED HOSPITALS

    1. Akontombra

    2. Bogoso

    3. Elubo

    4. Mpohor

    5. Nsuaem

    6. Wassa Dunkwa

    7. Weta, Volta Region

    8. Tolon

    9. Sawla

    10. Buipe

    11. Bamboi

    12. Suame

    13. Twedie

    14. Sabronum

    15. Drobonso

    16. Manso Nkwanta

    17. Mim

    18. Nkwatia

    19. Kwabeng, Atiwa West

    20. Adukrom

    21. Achiase

    22. Jumapo

    23. Kpone Katamanso

    24. Sefwi Asawinso

    25. Ashaiman Polyclinic

    26. Adentan/Ogbojo Polyclinic

    27. Bortianor Polyclinic

    28. Oduman Polyclinic

    29. Sege Polyclinic

    30. Modernization of Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital

    31. Modernization of Kibi District Hospital

    32. Modernization of Aburi Hospital

    33. Modernization of Atibie Hospital

    34. Bolgatanga Regional Hospital (Phase III)

    35. Urology and Nephrology Centre, Korle Bu

    36. UGMC Phase II

    MSDI Clinics Completed

    37. Kwabena Kumi, Suhum

    38. Odumasi New site, Obuasi

    39. Fumsua, Sekyere Afram Plains

    40. Adansi Asokwa Town, Adansi Asokwa

    41. Odumasi, Asante Akim Central

    42. Poano, Bekwai

    43. Nanton Area, Nanton

    44. Makayili, Bimbila

    45. Makango, Salaga south

    46. Tempani Central, Garu Tempani

    49. Zuarungu, Bolga

    50. Gbedema, Builsa South

    51. Awoma, Buem

    52. Dodofie Area, Akan

    53. Kasoa Akweley Area, Awutu Senya East

    54. Osenegya, Atimokwa

    55. Insu of Prestea Huni Valley

    56. Brefor Baapare, Lawra

    57. Asiri, Jaman North

    58. Akwasa Electoral Area, Bortianor

    Completed Treatment and Holding Hospitals*

    59. Dodowa

    60. Pantang

    61. Cape Coast

    62. Elubo

    63. Keta

    YET TO BE COMPLETED HOSPITALS

    64. Obuasi Trauma

    65. 100 bed Anyinam Hospital

    66. 40 bed Enyiresi Hospital

    67. 750 bed KATH Maternity and Children’s block

    68. 285 bed Eastern Regional Hospital, Koforidua

    69. Expansion of Shama Hospital (100 beds being added)

    70. 180 bed La General Hospital

    71. 400 bed Tema General Hospital

    72. Central Medical Stores

    73. Effia Nkwanta Hospital

    74. New Western Regional Hospital

    75. Rehabilitation of National Diabetes Centre, Korle Bu

    76. 100 bed Weija Children’s Hospital

    77. Kwahu Besease

    78. Dedesua, Bosomtwe

    79. Bodi

    80. Jumapo Health Center

    81. Odumasi, Abuakwa South

    82. Adaklu teaching hospital

    83. Zebilla, Upper West Region

    84. Pantang, Greater Accra

    85. Asawimso, Western Region

    86. Goaso hospital, Ahafo Region

    87. Sunyani

    88. Aflao

    ONGOING AGENDA 111 HOSPITALS

    89. Asunafo South

    90. Bodi

    91. Dormaa Central

    92. Suaman

    93. Techiman North

    94. Sunyani West

    95. Atwima Mponua

    96. Bia East

    97. Berekum West

    98. Asutifi North

    99. Upper Denkyira West

    100. Gomoa Central

    101. Assin South

    102. Twifo Heman

    103. Ahanta West

    104. Akyemansa

    105. Birim South

    106. Awutu Senya

    107. Agona East

    108. Asene Manso Akroso

    109. Mpohor

    110. Assin North

    111. Atiwa West

    112. Asuogyaman

    113. Kwahu Afram Plains South

    114. La-Nkwantanang Madina

    115. Ejura Sekyedumase

    116. Fanteakwa South

    117. Upper West Akim

    118. Awutu Senya East

    119. Ablekuma West Municipal

    120. Adentan Municipal

    121. Ablekuma Central

    122. AMA

    123. Ningo Prampram

    124. Nkwanta North

    125. Ga Central

    126. Ada West

    127. Kadjebi

    128. Krachi Nchumuru

    129. Jasikan

    130. Ashaiman

    131. Tema West

    132. Ayawaso West

    133. Ga South

    134. Wadie Dumakase

    135. Wa West

    136. Nanton

    137. Savelugu Municipal

    138. Lambussie Karni

    139. North Gonja

    140. Saboba

    141. Wa East

    142. Daffiama Bussie Issa

    143. North East Gonja

    144. Sissala West

    145. Nanumba South

    146. Sagnariga Municipal

    147. Garu

    148. Kassena Nankana West

    149. Pusiga

    150. Bolgatanga East

    151. Binduri

    152. Mion

    153. Bunkpurugu Nyankpanduri

    154. Tempane

    155. Kpandai

    156. Mamprugu Moagduri

    157. Yunyoo Nasuan

    158. Kumbungu

    159. Chereponi

    160. Builsa South

    161. Nabdam

    162. Akatsi North

    163. South Dayi

    164. Adaklu

    165. Tamale (Psychiatric Hospital)

    166. Anloga

    167. Afadzato South

    168. Sene East

    169. Ho West

    170. Pru West

    171. Agortime Ziope

    172. Nkoranza North

    173. Akatsi

    174. Atwima Kwanwoma

    175. Oforikrom Municipal

    176. Atwima Nwabiagya North

    177. Afigya Kwabre North

    178. Afigya Kwabre South

    179. Adansi Asokwa

    180. Bosome Freho

    181. Ahafo Ano South East

    182. Amansie South

    183. Sekyere Central

    184. Ahafo Ano South West

    185. Ejisu

    186. Asokore Mampong

    187. Akrofuom

    188. KMA

    189. Obuasi East

    TREATMENT AND HOLDING HOSPITALS

    190. Adaklu

    191. Korle bu Centre

    192. Sewua

    193. Zebilla – 36 bed (86% as at April 2024)

    194. Asawinso – (93% as at April 2024)

    195. Goaso – (91% as at April 2024)

    196. Nalerigu – 36 bed

    197. Sunyani 36 bed (63 % as at April 2024)

    198. Kumasi South – 21 bed

    199. Aflao – (95% as at April 2024)

    200. Koforidua – (57% as at April 2024)

    201. Dodowa + 6 Staff bungalows

    202. Nkenkasu

    203. Effia

    204. Nkwanta

    205. Pantang

    206. Nsawam

  • Mistrust, disrespect ahead of polls will not augur well – Peace Council to political parties

    Mistrust, disrespect ahead of polls will not augur well – Peace Council to political parties

    The Right Reverend Samuel Osabutey, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council, has called on individuals, communities, and political groups to foster mutual respect, trust, and understanding as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections.

    “In a world where conflicts, wars, misunderstandings, and division often dominate headlines, there is a need for the collective hope and effort of individuals, communities, and political groups to build lasting peace based on mutual respect, trust, and understanding,” he stated.

    Speaking on his behalf at a sensitization programme on Preventing Violent Extremism in Accra, Right Rev. Osabutey emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address potential threats before, during, and after the elections.

    The event, organized by the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council, brought together representatives from political parties, opinion leaders, vulnerable groups, and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for ensuring peaceful elections.

    Right Rev. Osabutey described the gathering as timely, given its focus on raising awareness about violent extremism and identifying early warning signs of radicalization in communities.

    While acknowledging Ghana’s track record as a stable democracy, having conducted eight credible elections since 1992, he cautioned against complacency. He referenced instances of electoral violence and property destruction in previous elections, underscoring the need for vigilance and sustained peace-building efforts.

    He further highlighted terrorism and violent extremism as persistent global threats, citing the 2022 Global Terrorism Index, which revealed that nearly half of all global terrorism-related deaths occurred in sub-Saharan Africa. He noted the increasing prevalence of militant activities in the Sahel region and cautioned, “Ghana remains the only country among its immediate neighbours—Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Togo—yet to experience a terrorist attack, but we must not be complacent.”

    Right Rev. Osabutey attributed threats to peace in Ghana to factors such as bad governance, unemployment, politically sponsored vigilantism, and weak security structures. He urged the security services to be adequately resourced to tackle these challenges effectively.

    On the role of the youth in maintaining national stability, he noted, “While the youth represent the future of the country, their energy, if misdirected, could threaten national stability.”

    Expressing concern about how some politicians exploit young people’s enthusiasm for political gain, he warned that such actions could lead to unrest. He urged the youth to prioritize national interests over personal ambitions, stating, “Your contributions should be geared toward building a peaceful and prosperous Ghana.”

    To address these challenges, Right Rev. Osabutey proposed community engagement, youth empowerment, and the inclusion of women in efforts to prevent violent extremism. He stressed the importance of education, dialogue, and fostering strong community values as critical tools to counter radicalization.

    He commended participants for their commitment to preserving Ghana’s peace and urged collective action to ensure peaceful elections. “Let us move forward with the spirit of dialogue, cooperation, and hope,” he said, expressing confidence in Ghana’s ability to achieve peaceful polls through collaborative efforts.

  • Review VAT on exploration, enhance security of mines – Lands Minister on boosting mining sector

    Review VAT on exploration, enhance security of mines – Lands Minister on boosting mining sector

    The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called for a review of Value Added Tax (VAT) on exploration and enhanced security for mining operations to maximize Ghana’s benefits from its mining sector.

    Speaking at the 10th Ghana Mining Industry Awards held at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast, Accra, Jinapor outlined three key recommendations aimed at strengthening the relationship between the government and the Ghana Chamber of Mines.

    He emphasized that these measures would position Ghana as a leading mining hub while fostering sustainable development in the sector.

    Jinapor highlighted the productive collaboration between his ministry and the Ghana Chamber of Mines, attributing Ghana’s rise to becoming Africa’s leading gold producer to this partnership.

    He stated, “We have worked together, closely and in good faith, not only to overtake South Africa as the leading producer of gold on the continent, but we have consistently increased production, reaching some four million ounces (4,000,000 oz) last year.”

    He further disclosed that gold export receipts had significantly bolstered the national economy, with last year’s receipts amounting to $4.67 billion as of August 2023. This year, gold receipts for the first half alone reached $5 billion, with a projection to exceed $10 billion by the year’s end.

    To sustain these achievements, the minister proposed three key actions. First, he urged the next government to prioritize the issue of VAT on exploration, describing exploration as the lifeblood of the mining industry and calling for incentives to encourage it. He revealed that while progress had been made on this issue, the current parliamentary situation had hindered its conclusion.

    “I led the Chamber to make a presentation to the Economic Management Team, and we were seriously working to review this VAT. Unfortunately, with the current situation in Parliament, it is unlikely that we can conclude this matter before the end of the year. I, therefore, strongly recommend that the next Minister takes this matter up, and it is my hope that the Chamber will collaborate with the next Minister to deal with this matter,” he said.

    He stressed the importance of enhancing the security of mines, noting that the growth of the industry depends on the peace of mind of its players. He highlighted efforts to train special security forces and urged the next administration to continue implementing agreed security measures.

    The Minister then called for increased attention to the development of mining communities, arguing that ensuring the happiness of local communities is closely tied to the security and sustainability of mining operations.

    Mr Jinapor also commended mining companies and personalities for their contributions to the sector, assuring continued government support to create an environment conducive to successful investments. He pointed out the significant opportunities for value addition to Ghana’s mineral resources, emphasizing that such initiatives would drive wealth creation.

    On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Sulemanu Koney, praised Jinapor’s visionary and amiable leadership, crediting him with the impressive results seen in the large-scale mining sector. He remarked that the minister’s extraordinary relationship with stakeholders has already yielded fruitful outcomes.

  • Trapped truck driver saved by GNFS in Assin Nkran accident

    Trapped truck driver saved by GNFS in Assin Nkran accident

    Fire rescuers on Monday swiftly responded to a road accident at Assin Nkran in the Central Region, reported to the Abura Dunkwa Fire Station.

    A 215-ton generator being transported from Takoradi to Kumasi fell off its trailer, colliding with an oncoming charcoal truck, which then crashed into a parked Nissan Almera vehicle.

    The charcoal truck driver was trapped in the wreckage, while the mate escaped unharmed. Rescuers skillfully extricated the injured driver, who was promptly transported to the Abura Dunkwa Hospital by an ambulance.

    The accident temporarily blocked the main road, with a bypass created for smaller vehicles while recovery operations were initiated.

    The team also ensured safety by cleaning up spilt fuel from the generator to prevent further hazards.

  • GNFS blows alarm on fake appointment letters, prospectuses to applicants

    GNFS blows alarm on fake appointment letters, prospectuses to applicants

    The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised an alarm over the circulation of fake appointment letters, prospectuses, and fictitious text messages targeting applicants on social media.

    The GNFS clarified that these fraudulent materials are not issued by the service but are the handiwork of fraudsters attempting to deceive unsuspecting individuals.

    “All applicants are strongly advised to remain vigilant and report any such fraudulent information or activities immediately to the GNFS or the Police for swift legal action,” the service stated.

    To help applicants identify these scams, the GNFS has shared samples of the fake letters and messages for reference.

    The public is urged to stay alert and exercise caution to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

  • Ballot papers to Northern, 2 other regions and BVDs disseminated to police armories – EC

    Ballot papers to Northern, 2 other regions and BVDs disseminated to police armories – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced the dissemination of ballot papers for the Northern, Bono, and Bono East Regions to police armories, with the remaining ballot papers scheduled for delivery by the end of the day.

    Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the EC, disclosed during a meeting with the National Elections Security Task Force, chaired by the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, on Tuesday that biometric verification devices (BVDs) are also being secured across the country.

    “As we speak, the BVDs have been sent to over 8 regional armories and are in safe keeping there,” Jean Mensa stated on November 26, 2024, adding that all devices will be under police protection by the weekend.

    She further noted that ballot papers for most regions and all registers have already been dispatched to the 16 regions, except for the Northern, Bono, and Bono East Regions, which are set to receive their ballot papers this afternoon.

    The EC has also recruited 210,000 temporary officials, including returning officers, deputy returning officers, presiding officers, and polling assistants, for the December 7 elections. These officials are being trained extensively, with the introduction of aide memoires to guide them in their roles.

    “They are undergoing extensive training for all categories of staff. This year, we have developed what we call the aide memoires, which are basic instructions on the key aspects of our work, based on feedback from our officers on the ground and various election observation missions,” Mensa explained.

    Both the EC and security officials have assured the public of a credible, transparent, and peaceful electoral process as preparations intensify ahead of the polls.

    “We will do all it takes to ensure this country continues to be at peace with herself,” Dr. George Akuffo Dampare added.

  • Akufo-Addo extols Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs for support during presidency

    Akufo-Addo extols Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs for support during presidency

    President Nana Akufo-Addo has lauded the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs for their unwavering support throughout his presidency, describing their partnership as pivotal to his administration’s success.

    Speaking during a meeting with the chiefs on Tuesday, November 26, as part of his three-day tour of the Ashanti Region, President Akufo-Addo expressed his deep gratitude for their cooperation and encouragement.

    The president emphasizing that the collaboration between his administration and the traditional leaders was a cornerstone of stability in the region.

    He highlighted the vital role the chiefs played in advancing developmental projects, noting that their backing made it easier to implement key policies and initiatives that have benefitted the region.

    President Akufo-Addo also acknowledged the enduring relationship between his administration and the Ashanti Region’s traditional authorities, affirming that their support had been instrumental in fostering progress.

    As his tenure nears its conclusion, the President reiterated his commitment to maintaining the strong partnership with the chiefs and promised continued attention to the region’s needs.

    The meeting underscored the important bond between the government and the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs, showcasing their collective efforts in driving the development of the region.

  • Your contribution to education is unparalleled – Paramount chiefs, Queenmothers to Akufo-Addo

    Your contribution to education is unparalleled – Paramount chiefs, Queenmothers to Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo’s contributions to education have been hailed as unmatched by the Paramount Chiefs and Queenmothers of the Ashanti Region during his three-day tour of the area.

    The traditional leaders warmly welcomed the President, affectionately referring to him as their “Precious President.” They expressed gratitude for his efforts in advancing the region’s development throughout his tenure.

    “‘Nana, you have done a lot. Nana, you have done well.’ Your contribution to education is unparalleled. The number of children who have had the chance to get secondary education. How can we forget. We know that it’s constitutional for you to leave, otherwise we would have wanted you to stay in office,” one chief said, lauding the Free Senior High School initiative and its transformative impact.

    Highlighting other achievements, the traditional leaders also praised the President for improving infrastructure in the region.

    “Let’s talk about roads. The long travel distances that we would travel have been cut short. Otherwise, the body pains we experienced were tough,” a chief remarked, acknowledging the government’s road projects.

    The chiefs and queenmothers further commended the President for overseeing the completion of 18 hospitals in the region, some of which have already been commissioned and are operational.

    “We thank you for 18 hospitals out of which you have completed some and you have been commissioning already and people are already in it working,” another leader noted.

    President Akufo-Addo, in response, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the traditional leaders’ support. Speaking on Tuesday, November 26, he recognized their partnership as a key factor in the success of his administration.

    The President also acknowledged the contributions of his appointees from the Ashanti Region, emphasizing their dedication to serving the nation.

    The chiefs and queenmothers, in turn, praised the strategic appointments of individuals from the region to key government positions, crediting their work for furthering the development of Asanteman.

  • Air pollution levels consistently surging due to emissions from vehicles – Epidemiologist

    Air pollution levels consistently surging due to emissions from vehicles – Epidemiologist

    Air pollution levels in Ghana are rising steadily, largely driven by vehicle emissions, says Dr. Reginald Quansah, an epidemiologist at the University of Ghana.

    “Air pollution levels are consistently moving up. Several factors account for this. I think one of the things that is very obvious is emissions from vehicles,” Dr. Quansah stated in a report on JoyNews.

    Afri-SET, an air quality research organization, has been monitoring the air commuters breathe using wearable mobile sensors. Their findings reveal alarming levels of harmful pollutants during peak travel hours.

    “We give [the sensors] to them to wear. The idea is to wear the device close to their nose level, just to see whether what they are breathing in will be the same as the sensor is picking,” explained James Nimo, a research associate at Afri-SET.

    “The uncalibrated data shows that rush hours are around 80 milligrams per cubic meter, which is not good for human health. From the graph, you could see that between six and 10, we have some peaks,” Nimo added.

    The transport sector remains Ghana’s leading contributor to air pollution. With 3.2 million vehicles on the roads as of 2022, vehicle emissions account for nearly 40% of the country’s air pollution. This significantly surpasses contributions from industries at 11% and households at 10%. Older, high-emission minibuses, locally known as trotros, are particularly problematic, serving as the primary mode of transport for 70% of daily commuters.

    Desmond Appiah, Country Lead of the Clean Air Fund, stressed the urgent need for stronger enforcement of air quality regulations.

    “There’s a lot more that we need to be doing to push the needle. The challenge that the clean air field faces is that the quality of the air is not seen, so we call it a silent killer. We are breathing, but we may not see that this is the state of the quality,” Appiah remarked.

    The health implications of air pollution are dire. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes 28,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana. Globally, air pollution-related diseases claim over seven million lives each year, making it the second leading health risk factor for death and disability, after malnutrition.

    As air pollution levels continue to surge, experts warn that without decisive action, the silent threat of poor air quality will persist, putting countless lives at risk.

  • Ghana’s poor air quality is a silent killer – Clean Air Fund

    Ghana’s poor air quality is a silent killer – Clean Air Fund

    Experts warn that the country’s deteriorating air quality has become a “silent killer,” with deadly consequences for public health.

    Desmond Appiah, Country Lead of the Clean Air Fund, has emphasized the urgency of addressing the crisis.

    “There’s a lot more that we need to be doing to push the needle. The challenge that the clean air field faces is that the quality of the air is not seen, so we call it a silent killer. We are breathing, but we may not see that this is the state of the quality,” he noted.

    Researchers at Afri-SET, an air quality monitoring organization, have been using wearable mobile sensors to assess the air commuters breathe daily. Preliminary data reveals alarmingly high levels of harmful pollutants during peak travel hours, posing significant health risks.

    “We give [the sensors] to them to wear. The idea is to wear the device close to their nose level, just to see whether what they are breathing in will be the same as the sensor is picking,” explained James Nimo, a research associate at Afri-SET.

    “The uncalibrated data shows that rush hours are around 80 milligrams per cubic meter, which is not good for human health. From the graph, you could see that between six and 10, we have some peaks,” he added.

    The transport sector is the leading contributor to Ghana’s air pollution. With a fleet of 3.2 million vehicles as of 2022, emissions from vehicles account for nearly 40% of the country’s air pollution—far surpassing industries at 11% and households at 10%. Older, high-emission minibuses, locally known as trotros, remain the primary mode of transport for 70% of daily commuters, further worsening air quality during rush hours.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for 28,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana. Globally, air pollution-related diseases claim over seven million lives each year, making it the second leading health risk factor for death and disability, after malnutrition.

  • Asthmatic patients’ health at risk over poor air quality in Ghana

    Asthmatic patients’ health at risk over poor air quality in Ghana

    The welfare of asthmatic patients and individuals with respiratory health issues in Ghana is being compromised due to the deteriorating air quality in the country.

    Reuben Alexander Otu, an asthmatic patient, in a JoyNews report highlighted the challenges he faces navigating through toxic air, which triggers his condition. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that inflames and narrows the airways, is often worsened by environmental factors like air pollution.

    “You encounter different kinds of cars with smoke from their exhaust pipes, very bad and they’re not the best. It will help me to at least have a clean breath of air, so that’s why I normally put on my nose mask, especially when I use the trotro and stuff, people might come in with all sorts of perfumes which may not be best for me,” Reuben shared.

    Reuben’s experience was shared during the findings of air quality researchers at Afri-SET, a monitoring organization that equips commuters with wearable mobile sensors to measure the air they breathe. James Nimo, a research associate at Afri-SET, disclosed alarming results from recent studies.

    “The uncalibrated data shows that rush hours are around 80 milligrams per cubic meter, which is not good for human health. From the graph, you could see that between six and 10, we have some peaks,” he noted.

    The WHO estimates 28,000 people die prematurely every year in Ghana as a result of air pollution. Between 2020 and 2023, the Ghana Health Service’s Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Control Programme documented over 230,000 new cases of asthma.

    According to statistics, Ghana’s transport sector remains the largest contributor to air pollution, with emissions from vehicles accounting for nearly 40% of the country’s air pollution. The sector’s fleet of 3.2 million vehicles, as of 2022, includes a significant number of older minibuses, or trotros, which are heavily relied upon by 70% of commuters daily.

    Desmond Appiah, Country Lead of the Clean Air Fund, has called for urgent enforcement of air pollution laws. “There’s a lot more that we need to be doing to push the needle. The challenge that the clean air field faces is that the quality of the air is not seen, so we call it a silent killer. We are breathing, but we may not see that this is the state of the quality,” he explained.

    Asthma patients like Reuben face heightened risks, as poor air quality can inflame airways, causing wheezing, chest tightness, and even life-threatening asthma attacks. Beyond asthma, air pollution is linked to other respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes over 28,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana to air pollution. Globally, air pollution ranks as the second leading health risk factor, claiming over seven million lives each year.

  • Qatar Charity donates wheelchairs, BP monitors to Health Ministry

    Qatar Charity donates wheelchairs, BP monitors to Health Ministry

    The Ministry of Health on Monday received a generous donation from Qatar Charity, consisting of 90 manual wheelchairs and 570 electronic arm cuff blood pressure monitors.

    Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the Minister for Health, expressed deep gratitude to Qatar Charity for their support, assuring that the donated items would be distributed to various health facilities across the country within 72 hours.

    Qatar Charity, one of the world’s largest humanitarian and development organizations, has been instrumental in providing life-saving assistance to communities affected by conflict, persecution, and natural disasters.

    The organization also focuses on long-term solutions to poverty through sustainable programs in areas such as social welfare, water and sanitation, education, nutrition, and economic empowerment.

    Over the past five years, Qatar Charity has reached 29 million people through large-scale humanitarian and development projects, with a total expenditure of 1.2 billion US dollars.

  • GES embarks on a 16-day activism to check gender-based violence in SHSs nationwide

    GES embarks on a 16-day activism to check gender-based violence in SHSs nationwide

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially launched a 16-day campaign aimed at tackling gender-based violence (GBV) in Senior High Schools (SHS) across the country.

    The initiative, which focuses on creating safe spaces for both students and teachers, was inaugurated today under the theme “Safe Spaces, Empowered Voices: Ending Sexual Harassment in Our Schools.”

    Cynthia Bosomtwe, a policy advisor and consultant for IPA Ghana, who chaired the event, emphasized that a comprehensive approach is necessary to eliminate GBV in schools. She called for advocacy, programs, policies, and regulations to be put in place to protect individuals, particularly women and girls.

    “These regulations should aim at protecting the rights of individuals, especially women and girls. In Ghana, SGBV against women and girls is common in our homes, communities, and schools,” Bosomtwe stated. She further urged, “We need to rise up” to address the pervasive issue.

    In his opening remarks, Steven Abamfo, the Greater Accra Regional Director of Education, shed light on the far-reaching effects of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) within educational environments. He highlighted how such violence strips individuals of their dignity and creates an unsafe learning environment. “It affects not only the individuals directly involved but also the entire school community by creating an atmosphere of fear,” Abamfo added.

    The campaign comes on the heels of alarming findings from a report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Girls Excellent Movement (GEM). The report, titled Sheltered Yet Exposed, details the prevalence of sexual assault among female students in SHS from 2019 to 2021. According to the report, a staggering 51.9% of female students experienced sexual assault during this period. The report also shows that 54.3% of the victims were aged between 17 and 22, while 45.7% were between the ages of 11 and 16.

    The perpetrators of these assaults varied, with friends being the most common offenders at 24%, followed by family friends (12%), schoolmates (12%), teachers (10%), and strangers (9%). The report also highlighted that beyond sexual assaults, female students in SHS endure other forms of gender-based violence, including physical assault, bullying, verbal abuse, and harassment.

    The launch of the campaign was attended by development partners, including the National Teaching Council (NTC), UNICEF, and Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), who are all working together to address this critical issue in Ghana’s education system.

  • MOWAG strikes again on Nov 28 over unresolved issues

    MOWAG strikes again on Nov 28 over unresolved issues

    The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has confirmed that it will initiate a nationwide strike on Thursday, November 28, 2024, due to the government’s failure to address their ongoing grievances.

    The decision follows a series of unresolved issues that led to the temporary suspension of a previous strike in September 2024, aimed at fostering dialogue. MOWAG’s latest action highlights the frustration felt by its members, accusing relevant authorities of inaction and a lack of commitment to resolving the crisis.

    “Despite our efforts to reach a mutually acceptable resolution, the issues that led to the initial strike remain unresolved. We have been left with no choice but to take this decision to protect the interest of our members,” MOWAG’s statement emphasized.

    Starting November 28, mortuary workers across both public and private sectors will cease operations indefinitely. This move is expected to have significant consequences for mortuary services, disrupting funeral arrangements and affecting families who rely on timely funeral services.

    The association has long pointed to poor working conditions, low wages, and inadequate resources as key factors contributing to their decision. MOWAG argues that these challenges not only jeopardize the health and safety of workers but also compromise the quality of mortuary services across the country.

    The strike poses a serious challenge to funeral celebrations, with potential delays in processing bodies, which could impact public health and grieving families.

    Despite the impending strike, MOWAG’s leadership remains open to negotiations. “We hope that even at this late stage, we can still resolve our differences through open and productive discussions,” the statement concluded, urging authorities to act swiftly to avert further disruption.

  • Ghana’s air quality dangerous during rush hours – Research reveals

    Ghana’s air quality dangerous during rush hours – Research reveals

    Commuters in Ghana are unknowingly inhaling toxic air during rush hours, a situation that poses serious health risks, according to preliminary findings by air quality researchers.

    Researchers at Afri-SET, an air quality research organisation monitoring the air commuters breathe using wearable mobile sensors indicated that data gathered reveals alarming levels of harmful pollutants during peak travel hours.

    “We give [the sensors] to them to wear. The idea is to wear the device close to their nose level, just to see whether what they are breathing in will be the same as the sensor is picking,” said James Nimo, a research associate at Afri-SET.

    “The uncalibrated data shows that rush hours are around 80 milligrams per cubic meter, which is not good for human health. From the graph, you could see that between six and 10, we have some peaks.”

    The transport sector, with 3.2 million vehicles as of 2022, is Ghana’s leading contributor to air pollution. Emissions from vehicles account for nearly 40% of the country’s air pollution, surpassing industries at 11% and households at 10%. Older, high-emission minibuses, locally known as trotros, remain the primary mode of transport for 70% of daily commuters, further exacerbating the issue.

    Desmond Appiah, Country Lead of the Clean Air Fund, emphasized the urgent need to enforce air pollution laws.

    “There’s a lot more that we need to be doing to push the needle. The challenge that the clean air field faces is that the quality of the air is not seen, so we call it a silent killer. We are breathing, but we may not see that this is the state of the quality,” he explained.

    Statistics highlight the dire impact of air pollution. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes 28,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana. Globally, air pollution-related diseases claim over seven million lives each year, making it the second leading health risk factor for death and disability, after malnutrition.

    The Ghana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA-Ghana) has acknowledged the severe impact of air pollution on human health, ecosystems, and climate change. The agency continues to regulate waste discharges and emissions but admits that much more needs to be done to combat the issue effectively.